The magic moments
Wasps’ season remains on pause – but before the campaign was suspended, 23 competitive games were played. Rugby writer BOBBY BRIDGE was at most of those matches and has delivered his 12 best moments of the 2019/20 season - so far!
Alex Rieder’s return v Saracens – September 21, 2019
The first Wasps player to touch a ball in competitive action this season was Alex Rieder. He received the kick off 83 weeks after his last carry in Wasps colours when he suffered a catastrophic knee injury against Exeter. Sadly, the 53 minutes he played that afternoon (which included scoring a try) were the last of his professional career as he would later be forced to retire. But he could do so with the peace of mind that he gave everything to get back out on the field.
Zach Kibirige’s try v Sale Sharks – November 8, 2019
With precious little room to work with, defenders in his face and a tight in-goal area, the winger chipped ahead before speeding past the covering defenders to dot down for a sensational, individual try that showcased his abundance of finishing skills.
Matteo Minozzi nutmeg v Agen – November 23, 2019
In only his second Ricoh Arena appearance, the diminutive Italian gave a glimpse of what was to come. Fielding a kick that had gone over his head, he slid to gather before propelling himself through the would-be tackler’s legs before rising to his feet and counter-attacking.
It was a moment of off-the-cuff brilliance that sports fans love.
Nizaam Carr’s try v Bristol Bears – December 27, 2019
A bright display away at Ashton Gate appeared to be delivering another near miss for Wasps as Bristol Bears fought their way into a winning position.
With one last attack Wasps whipped the ball wide where their number eight lay in waiting. Using his speed and agility, the South African finished like a winger to secure a memorable 26-21 victory.
Jacob Umaga’s England call-up – January 20, 2020
Wasps had not long been humbled at home by 27 points to nil by a much-changed Bordeaux Begles side. It was a Monday morning press session you’d ordinarily dread so soon after the event.
Then news broke of Jacob Umaga’s surprise call-up to the England squad for the Six Nations. At this point he’d only started four Premiership games. It was the good news story that was so desperately needed.
Aside from a blip against Leicester Tigers, he has propelled his performances to new levels and was at the peak of his powers pulling Wasps’ attacking strings when the season was suspended.
Jack Willis turnover v Worcester – January 25, 2020
Nobody in the Premiership has made more turnovers than the Wasps flanker this season. He’s been a revelation at the breakdown.
Within those numbers have been some game-changers. Wasps were up by four points with the clock in the red at Worcester when the hosts probed for a match-winning score. Having lost leads in two of their previous three Premiership games against Harlequins and Northampton, a familiar feeling crept in. Metres from his own line, Willis somehow on one foot managed to stoop over a breakdown and compete for the ball, earning a penalty which was punted into touch. Concede there, the season could easily have unravelled.
Applause for Dai Young v Saracens – February 21, 2020
The dust had barely settled on the director of rugby’s confirmed departure from Wasps when Saracens were in town.
A fan’s idea, supported by the club, saw the crowd rise to their feet in the ninth minute in acknowledgement of the Welshman’s seasons spent at Wasps.
It was a wonderful moment to witness and be a part of. It had a galvanising effect on the team too, who scored their first try shortly afterwards on their way to a 60-10 victory.
Paolo Odogwu’s try-saving tackle v London Irish - March 1, 2020
Earlier in the same game, Ben Loader had broken infield from his wing and seemed certain to score. If he had, it would’ve been a mountain for Wasps to try and climb in the second half. The winger, making his first appearance since receiving a red card in November, somehow managed to prevent the Exiles man from grounding the ball when it seemed a formality.